§14-2-18 Advisory determination procedure. - West Virginia Statutes

§14-2-18. Advisory determination procedure.
The Governor or the head of a state agency may refer to the court for an advisory determination the question of the legal or equitable status, or both, of a claim against the state or a state agency. This procedure shall apply only to such claims as are within the jurisdiction of the court. The procedure shall be substantially as follows:

1. There shall be filed with the clerk the record of the claim, including a full statement of the facts, the contentions of the claimant and such other materials as the rules of the court may require. The record shall submit specific questions for the court's consideration.

2. The clerk shall examine the record submitted. If he or she finds that it is adequate under the rules, he or she shall give a copy of all materials submitted to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance. If the Joint Committee on Government and Finance shall so direct, the clerk shall place the claim on a special docket. If the clerk finds the record inadequate, he or she shall refer it back to the officer submitting it with the request that the necessary additions or changes be made.

3. When a claim is reached on the special docket, the court shall prepare a brief opinion for the information and guidance of the officer. The claim shall be considered informally and without hearing. A claimant shall not be entitled to appear in connection with the consideration of the claim.

4. The opinion shall be filed with the clerk. A copy shall be transmitted to the officer who referred the claim.

An advisory determination shall not bar the subsequent consideration of the same claim if properly submitted by, or on behalf of, the claimant. Such subsequent consideration, if undertaken, shall be de novo.